Audrey HayesBy Audrey Hayes

Updated November 2026

Motorcycle off road trails are open routes built for dual-sport and dirt bikes, and finding the right one comes down to three things: matching the terrain to your skill, checking the trail’s legal status, and preparing your bike before you leave pavement. This guide walks you through each step so you can pick a route you will enjoy and get back home in one piece.

Step 1: Match the Trail to Your Skill Level

Trail difficulty is rarely labeled consistently, so read the description closely. Look for mentions of loose rock, sand, stream crossings, steep grades, and technical log or rock sections. A beginner route usually has wide, graded dirt roads with few obstacles, while an expert route may include ledges, deep ruts, and climbs where a single stall can stop you. If you are new to dirt, start with a route rated easy and ride it twice before attempting anything harder.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Colorado 4×4 Trails Book: 5 Best Guides for Off-Road Routes.

Step 2: Confirm the Trail Is Legally Open

Many routes cross a mix of public land, private property, and seasonal closures. Check the managing agency’s website or a current map before you ride, and look for signs marking motorcycle or OHV access. Some trails restrict bikes to certain dates, and some forests close routes during wet weather to prevent erosion. Riding a closed trail can mean fines and damage to access for everyone else, so verify status the same week you go.

Step 3: Plan the Route and Season

Use a GPS unit or a phone app with downloaded offline maps, because cell coverage often disappears within a few miles of a trailhead. Note the distance, elevation gain, and fuel range. A common rule is to carry enough fuel for at least 50 percent more distance than your planned loop. Also check seasonal conditions: spring mud, summer heat, and early-winter snow can change a trail completely. For more route planning ideas, see Off-Road Trail Etiquette: Stay on Route, Share the Trail, which covers keeping to the marked line and sharing the trail with others.

Step 4: Prep Your Bike and Gear

Before any ride, inspect tires, chain tension, brake pads, and controls. Check that the skid plate is secure and that nothing is leaking. Set tire pressure for the terrain you expect, since lower pressure improves traction in sand and loose dirt but raises the risk of pinch flats on rocks. Pack a small kit that covers the most common roadside problems.

Essential Pre-Ride Checklist

  1. Tire pressure checked and tire plug kit packed
  2. Chain tension and lubrication confirmed
  3. Brake fluid and pad wear inspected
  4. Spare tube or tire repair kit, multitool, and tie-down straps packed
  5. Offline map loaded, phone charged, and a trip plan shared with someone at home
  6. Water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit on board
  7. Helmet, goggles, gloves, boots, and chest protection on

Riding solo carries more risk, so consider a group or at least a rider who knows the route. For recovery planning on more demanding routes, Off Road Recovery Gear Kit: 7 Essentials for Safe Trail Rescues explains what to carry if a bike or rider gets stuck.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Riding a route rated above your current skill because it looks like a short loop.
  • Relying on a phone map with no offline download in areas without signal.
  • Running low on fuel because you underestimated the distance or climbing.
  • Leaving tire pressure unchanged for sand or mud, which causes poor grip and tire damage.
  • Skipping the trip plan. Tell someone your route and expected return time.
  • Tire repair kit: A plug kit handles most punctures on the trail, and it takes minutes to use. View on Amazon
  • Handlebar-mounted GPS: A dedicated unit keeps your route visible without relying on a phone that can overheat or lose signal. View on Amazon
  • Hydration pack: Carrying water on your back keeps your hands free for the controls on long or hot rides. View on Amazon

FAQ

Do I need a special license to ride motorcycle off road trails?

Most public trails require a valid motorcycle endorsement or license, along with registration for the bike if it is street-legal. Requirements vary by state and land manager, so check the local rules before you ride.

What bike is best for beginner off-road riding?

A dual-sport or lightweight dirt bike with a lower seat height is usually easier to control on loose surfaces. Many instructors recommend starting with a bike you can comfortably pick up if it falls.

How do I find trails that are open right now?

Check the land management agency’s current alerts, local riding clubs, and recent trip reports. Seasonal closures and weather damage can change access quickly, so confirm before you travel.

Conclusion

Choosing motorcycle off road trails is a matter of matching difficulty to your skill, confirming legal access, and preparing both bike and rider. Work through each step, carry a basic repair kit, and tell someone your plan. Consult a qualified riding instructor if you are new to technical terrain.

Ready to choose one?

Audrey Hayes

About Audrey Hayes

Audrey Hayes is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our off-road trails & overlanding guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.